Poker Guide: What is Slow Rolling In Poker?

Live poker is both a game of calculation and social interaction. There are a set of rules that govern the game. These are the explicit ‘rules’ of poker. However, there is also a set of implicit rules applying to live poker. The issue of slow rolling in poker is an example of breaking one of these ‘implicit’ rules – or the ethics that guide the smooth flow of the game. Most poker players are aware of these unwritten rules or ethics.This article will look at the ethical issue of slow rolling in poker. We will begin by looking at a definition of ‘slow rolling’ regarding poker, give some examples of it, then describe why, perhaps, people implement such unethical behavior and why it is unethical. Following this, the article will end by looking at the consequences that could arise from deliberate ‘slow rolls’ in poker.

Slow Rolling In Poker – A Definition Of The Term

‘Slow rolling’ in poker or a ‘slow roll’ in poker is an action that constitutes contravening the ethics of the game. A deliberate ‘slow roll’ in the game of poker, according to Casino.org, is when: “…you [or a poker player] have an extremely strong hand but take a long time to make an easy call when closing the action on the river. Slow rolling is also when you know you have the best hand but purposely take a long time to reveal your hand at showdown.”

Why Is Slow Rolling Unethical Or Frowned Upon?

In brief, ‘slow rolling’ in poker is an action taken by a player that results in the deliberate slowing down of the game. It is seen as rude, unnecessary, and sometimes as arrogant or even as a taunt to other players at the table.

‘Slow Rolling’ is unethical as even though there are no explicit rules against the ‘taking of time(delaying)’ when revealing a hand in most forms of poker, it is unnecessary. Furthermore, it gives other players false hope – when the game is already over and when you know you have won. In addition to this, it impedes the game – and can stir up animosity among players. As often, poker – is played for high stakes – deliberate ‘slow rolls’ can be seen not only as unnecessary and rude but also to affect the good nature of the game. In this light, as mentioned earlier – it can be seen as passively aggressive and even an arrogant taunt to other players. What is the need of wasting time when you know you have the winning hand on the river? It is not a bluff nor a proper strategy and is viewed as disrespectful.

Results Or Consequences Of Deliberate Slow Roles In Poker

There are usually no explicit rules about slow rolling in poker – it is not illegal. However, according to Casino.org – various casino tables have their own rules and nuances. Some poker managers might explicitly forbid ‘slow rolls’. Sometimes a player will be cautioned when they have been thought to have committed this act. If they continue to ‘slow roll’ after receiving warnings, a poker manager or casino manager can ask a player to sit out for a certain amount of hands – or suspend and even ban them from participating at certain poker tables. In rare cases, slow-rolling can even be dangerous for the player – as they might stir up animosity at high stake events – resulting in undesired repercussions.

Well, that’s it for this post. I hope you have enjoyed it. If so be sure to comment below. Also, check out the following article if you have found this one useful: Irish Poker For Beginners: Learn How To Play Irish Poker.